Locked On Patriots - Daily Podcast On The New England Patriots - New England Patriots: Top 7 Priority Pats Free Agents; Kayshon Boutte Legal Troubles

Episode Date: January 26, 2024

With an estimated $69 million in expected available cap space for the upcoming NFL year, the New England Patriots have several internal free agents who deserve a portion of the Pats’ financial windf...all. Host Mike D’Abate his annual ‘Magnificent Seven’ free agent priorities. He also provides his thoughts on the arrest of Kayshon Boutte on illegal gaming charges. #patriots #nfl Find and follow Locked On Patriots on your favorite podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/locked-on-patriots-daily-podcast-on-new-england-patriots/id1140512627?i=1000632782469 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1c5ZxFmwg3WbfxAU3tR5Ve?si=k196wH-yRqifUcQQz8SjIQStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/locked-on-patriotsAnd follow host Mike D’Abate on Twitter, where he’ll be sharing the latest news about the New England Patriots and talking with fans.Twitter: @mdabateNFLSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Jase MedicalEmpower yourself when you purchase a Jase Case, providing you with a personal supply of 5 antibiotics that treat 50+ infections. Get yours today at jasemedical.com and use code LOCKEDON to get $20 off your order.eBay MotorsFor parts that fit, head to eBay Motors and look for the green check. Stay in the game with eBay Guaranteed Fit at eBayMotos.com. Let’s ride. eBay Guaranteed Fit only available to US customers. Eligible items only. Exclusions apply.BetterHelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Make your brain your friend, with BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDON today to get 10% off your first month.PrizePicksGo to PrizePicks.com/lockedonnfl and use code lockedonnfl for a first deposit match up to $100!GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase.LinkedInLinkedIn Jobs helps you find the qualified candidates you want to talk to, faster. Post your job for free at LinkedIn.com/LOCKEDONNFL. Terms and conditions apply.FanDuelRight now, NEW customers get ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY in BONUS BETS – GUARANTEED when you place a FIVE DOLLAR BET. Visit FanDuel.com/LOCKEDON to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Starting point is 00:00:00 You are Locked On Patriots, your daily New England Patriots podcast. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network, your team every day. Hello to all of you, Foxborough faithful, and thank you once again for making Locked on Patriots a daily part of your New England Patriots coverage and also your first listen every day. Remember, Locked on Patriots is not only available on all platforms, so make sure to smash that subscribe button, download and follow wherever
Starting point is 00:00:45 you get your podcasts to ensure that you get the latest episode as soon as it's available, but it is also a proud part of the Lockdown Podcast Network, your team every day. I'm your host, Mike DeBate. I cover your New England Patriots for Patriots Country, a fan nation, so please reach out to me. Let me know what's on your mind on X at MDABATENFL. While you're out there showing some love to Locked On Patriots social media style, please be sure to follow our account there as well at LO underscore Patriots.
Starting point is 00:01:17 And Pats fans, today's episode is brought to you by PrizePix, the easiest and most exciting way to play daily fantasy sports. Go to prizepix.com slash LockedOnNFL and use the code, all lowercase, LockedOnNFL, for a first deposit match up to $100. And Pats fans, a little bit of a change in venue due to personal reasons today, but I am always honored and humbled to have you join me here on LockedOn Patriots. And folks, we got a lot of action packed into the agenda today, including the return of Mike's Magnificent Seven. That's right. I'm going to be providing my rankings of the top seven Patriots internal free agents,
Starting point is 00:01:57 including what I believe the priority should be, according to the Pat's Brain Trust at One Patriots Place in Foxborough, to re-sign this offseason. So make sure to keep it right here, folks, because you are not going to want to miss this. But first, never let it be said that there is an offseason in the NFL. There's always a lot going on. And today, folks, no exception. Raheem Morris is reportedly set to take the head coaching job of the Atlanta Falcons, meaning that barring any unforeseen circumstances, Bill Belichick will not be coaching in the NFL this season. Who saw this coming? I definitely didn't.
Starting point is 00:02:34 And we're going to be talking about that and the ripple effect it may have on the Patriots coaching hires more here tomorrow on Locked on Patriots. So be sure to stay locked in for that. But today's big news from Foxborough, much more unfortunate and much more serious, and that is rookie receiver Keishon Budde arrested in Louisiana after a warrant had been issued for his role in an illegal gaming circle which stemmed from his time at LSU. Folks, there's still a lot to unravel here and a lot to unpack.
Starting point is 00:03:04 Here's what we know. Budae allegedly created what was deemed to be a fraudulent online gaming account, and that indicated that he was 21 years or older. WAFB in Baton Rouge, Louisiana was the first to report this, and they also reported that several hundred thousand dollars passed through it during its existence. The problem with all this is that Kayshaun did not turn 21 until May 2023. That was shortly after he was drafted in the sixth round by the Patriots in April's draft. Now, since word of his arrest has become public, the affidavit has provided additional details. Basically, Kayshaun placed over 8,900 wagers from the account, including 17 on college football games, 6 on LSU football, all before he turned 21. Some of those wagers were allegedly placed while he was still a player at LSU in 2022. And apparently he was pretty
Starting point is 00:04:01 nonchalant in trying to keep his identity or his involvement under wraps. He used the usernames Kayshaun Boutte7, Kayshaun Boutte01. Yeah, folks, initial looks at this case are not good. But I will say this, and it's important to remember this, folks. The sources that WAFB used to report did say that Boutte never bet against himself and that his actions in LSU games are not in question. Boutte turned himself in on felony charges of computer fraud and a misdemeanor count of gaming prohibited for persons under the age of 21. Arrangements have been made for Boutte to be
Starting point is 00:04:37 booked, post a $6,000 bond, and then immediately be released from the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison. And apparently this is something that LSU knew about. They were very quick to issue a statement right after word broke of Kayshaun's arrest. And LSU's statement reads as follows. In July 2023, LSU was made aware of allegations regarding a former student athlete's improper conduct related to sports gambling while enrolled at the university since then we have fully cooperated with all relevant authorities involved in the investigation and will continue to do so we have no evidence that any other student athletes participated in
Starting point is 00:05:17 these prohibited activities and we are grateful for measures that detect and discourage sports gambling related misconduct. And within an hour of this news breaking, the New England Patriots issued a statement of their own, and their message was a little bit more pointed, issued through a teen spokesperson, and they said, quote, the New England Patriots are aware that Kayshaun Butte is cooperating with Louisiana police regarding their investigation into an underage gambling charge while he was a student at Louisiana State University. The spokesperson went on to say, quote, I don't anticipate that we will be providing any additional comments at this time. And of course, last but not least, the NFL also
Starting point is 00:05:56 weighed in, provided a more abridged comment, but ultimately with the same sentiment as what the Patriots had to say, saying, quote, we are aware of the matter, but have no further comment at this time. And folks, in as much as we'd like to think that we know the whole story, or that we can make inferences on what happened, the truth is, we don't. It's way too early to know the entire story, way too early to make judgment calls on what's going to happen to Keishon Booty, both on a legal basis and with regard to his playing future with either the Patriots or in the NFL. So until then, let's let the legal proceedings happen on their schedule and whatever will be, will be. It's unfortunate, definitely not the news the Patriots wanted to hear, but with respect to all parties involved,
Starting point is 00:06:43 let's all try to learn more maybe even a lot more before we give uninformed opinions on something that i'm sure is a lot more complex than it seems on the surface that's fans legalities are often unpleasant but there is still a lot of business to be done at the patriots front office and in just a moment i'm going to reveal the 2024 edition of mike's magnificent seven that's. That's right, my top seven list is back, consisting of seven internal free agents that the Patriots should prioritize signing in the offseason, and I'll rank them from seven to one. And as always, I'm going to throw in a couple of honorable mentions as well. Part of the fun of doing these is I know you might agree
Starting point is 00:07:21 with some of the players on my list, and you're also going to disagree with some that I left off the list. Talking Patriots free agent priorities when this episode of the Locked On Patriots podcast continues, a proud part of the Locked On Podcast Network, your team, every day. Locked On listeners' passion, drive, and patience is what brings home that winning trophy. You know what?
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Starting point is 00:08:54 weekly coverage of your New England Patriots here on the pod. And folks, it's been an interesting offseason so far to say the least. Coaches coming and going. Air is coming to an end. A lot going on, and there's still a lot of business to be conducted in Foxborough
Starting point is 00:09:08 because your New England Patriots face perhaps their most important offseason in over a quarter century. Under the watchful eye of team owner Robert Kraft, Gerard Mayo faces the unenviable task of rebuilding a team that finished 4-13 last year. They not only missed the playoffs, but they also finished last in both the division and the conference.
Starting point is 00:09:29 And I know, based on the way 2023 went, the first urge is to tear it all down and rebuild it from scratch. But even though the team struggled a lot, and they did in 2023, there are still a lot of building blocks on which these Patriots can forge a new foundation. According to our good friend Miguel Benzon, the Pats cap himself, the Patriots are going to feel just north of $69 million in projected salary cap space.
Starting point is 00:09:55 And with that financial windfall comes the pressure of making decisions on filling several positions of need with free agents, both internally and externally. Now, both Gerard Mayo and Robert Kraft have made it clear they're going to be willing to burn some cash to add some talent and to preserve some of the homegrown talent. Now, they may wish to spend at least some of that financial windfall on those that can help bring the Patriots back to respectability in short order. Who better to do that than those who already know how things work here in Foxborough? So of the 24 players on the Patriots roster set to hit free agency, I thought it was a great
Starting point is 00:10:34 opportunity to bring back Mike's Magnificent Seven, my look at seven players that I believe the Patriots would be smart to retain for Gerard Mayo's first year at the helm. So without further ado, let's start with number seven, and that is my guy, Miles Bryant. Yeah, if you're an everydayer here on Locked On Patriots, you've heard me mention this man's name more than just once, and for as much difficulty as the Patriots had in the cornerback room this year. I think Miles emerged as a reliable contributor and even an occasional big-time playmaker, both from the slot and the perimeter. He finished the season with 77 total tackles, seven pass breakups, two forced fumbles, one sack, and an interception.
Starting point is 00:11:15 And those numbers may not leap off the page, but when you consider the fact that Miles did it mostly out of position, that's very impressive. Miles is most comfortable when he aligns from the slot, or even when he has to drop back and play the occasional hybrid safety. He was forced into duty on the outside this year, and that was because of the injuries to Christian Gonzalez. Even Jonathan Jones was banged up for a better part of the year. J.C. Jackson was forced to the sidelines throughout the latter part of the season
Starting point is 00:11:41 for personal reasons, so a lot was going on there. But whenever the Patriots needed a play to be made, Myles Bryant was there. Yes, there were the occasional missed tackles. Yes, he did get beat on coverage. But Myles is a very good fit for this defensive system, and again, I've said it several times, I know Gerard Mayo is going to make a lot of drastic changes when it comes to offense and special teams, but I don't think he's going to be in a rush to reinvent the wheel defensively. That unit worked very well last year, and Gerrard had as much of a hand in that as anyone. So if you're looking at defense, folks, I think Miles Bryant is a guy you want to have in the fold. With that being said, I turn my attention to the
Starting point is 00:12:19 offense, which does need some help. And coming in at number six on my list is running back Ezekiel Elliott. And I think Zeke was a key addition to the Patriots' backfield in 2023. He assumed the lead duties for the five final games for the Patriots after Ramondre Stevenson's season-ending ankle injury. We all wish Stevenson the very best. We expect him to make a full recovery, which is great news. But that being said, I thought Elliott performed very well. He led the team in rushing yards with 642. He also led the team in receptions in 51. Think about that for a second.
Starting point is 00:12:53 A running back led the team in receptions. I thought Zeke did everything the Patriots needed him to do and then some. And a lot of people expected, myself included, when he was first brought in, that his contributions were going to be most strongly felt inside the 20. That's where he's at his best. But he proved that he could still be a force between the tackles and the open field. And that type of complementary style, along with his being a red zone threat, to me makes
Starting point is 00:13:19 him someone the Patriots should strongly consider keeping around. Now, that may not be easy. I think he's going to find a more lucrative offer outside of New England. In fact, he may find more than one, folks, but his prowess as a blocker and, again, that red zone threat makes him a strong complement to Ramondre Stevenson's running style. Ezekiel Elliott is a positive influence in that locker room. He was a great soldier this year, a joy to cover, and I really hope the Patriots can try to work something out to bring him back
Starting point is 00:13:48 but if they can't, I wish him nothing but the best because again, he came up big when the Patriots needed him most. Coming in at number five is a fan favorite for a lot of reasons and all your reasons folks are right. Those of you viewing can see on the screen, Kendrick Bourne's name has flashed. And folks, since he joined the Pats, Bourne's versatility has allowed him to wear multiple hats within the team's offense. To me, this is what makes him valuable. Over the course of three seasons here with the Patriots, he's compiled 1,640 yards on
Starting point is 00:14:19 127 catches, 10 of which have gone for touchdowns. And something I don't think he gets enough credit for is being a technically gifted receiver. That technical prowess allows him to win from either alignment. He can either look comfortable in the Z receiver role, or he can occasionally assist in the slot. But when the Patriots have needed him to do it, he can even line up at the X receiver. And if the Pats really want to get creative, he can carry the ball out of the backfield on occasion, both on the jet sweep and on design runs. We all felt terribly for Kendrick when he went down with a torn ACL in week eight against the Miami Dolphins. Tough break, but good news, the Patriots fully expect him to recover, and there are already reports that are bubbling up that both sides are exploring a potential return in 2024.
Starting point is 00:15:09 And him being my fifth priority for the Patriots, I think that's a very smart move. So keep a sharp eye on Kendrick Bourne, folks, because I think this one has a chance to be a very impactful signing. And I don't think it precludes them from going after a number one receiver. And we'll talk about that a little bit more when we get to external free agents here in the not-so-distant future. So keep a sharp eye on that, folks, and stay locked into Locked On Patriots. Yeah, we're not even close to being done with evaluating the Patriots' potential offseason moves just yet.
Starting point is 00:15:36 But our list rolls right along. And coming in at number four, linebacker Anfernee Jennings. And that smile is not mine, folks. It definitely belongs to my good friend, Steve Balistrieri, who joined me here earlier in the week. Steve has been one of Jennings' biggest supporters, and this year, it finally all came into fruition. In the aftermath of losing Matthew Judon to a torn bicep in week four against the Dallas Cowboys, the Patriots needed someone to step up and be a steady presence in the middle of that defense, and Jennings answered that call and then some.
Starting point is 00:16:08 For the first time since Anthony entered the league, he was fully healthy, and he led the team with 14 tackles for loss. When he's at his best, he's a stout run defender, and he continued to get better in that department this year. I thought he did a great job of setting the edge, and he served as a playmaker against the run. But the one thing that I was pleasantly surprised on this year is seeing him emerge into a stout pass rusher as well. I think Anthony has an underrated mix of quickness and change of direction ability. That combined with his power, his instincts, and what I think is his most prominent strength, and that's his toughness and his tenacity, really made him an invaluable part of the Patriots' defense this year.
Starting point is 00:16:47 And from what I've heard from both camps, folks, there is still mutual interest in making things happen for Anfernee to stay in New England. So again, keep a sharp eye on Anfernee Jennings. I think this is one the Patriots may be a little extra motivated to keep in-house, but again, if he does reach unrestricted free agency, that could definitely mean a big payday for him. If it does, he has certainly earned it. Folks, it is nearly time to reveal the top three, and if you're taking a look at the
Starting point is 00:17:14 list, I'm sure you can probably deduce who is going to be in this top three, but yes, there were a couple of honorable mentions that almost made the cut, and I mean a razor-thin margin. We're going to discuss that and more when this episode of the Locked On Patriots podcast wraps up right here on the Locked On Podcast Network, your team every day. Locked On listeners, the NFL regular season has wrapped up, but there is still time to get in on the action with FanDuel, America's number one sportsbook, because right now, new customers get $150 in bonus bets guaranteed when you place a $5 bet. That's $150 in bonus bets, win or lose. The app is so easy to
Starting point is 00:18:00 use, and there are so many different ways to bet like live same game parlays find bets in the new explore tab make a parlay in the parlay hub the best way to find popular parlays and more so visit fanduel.com slash locked on and make your first bet a layup fan duel official partner of the NFL. Patriots fans, thank you once again for joining me here today on Locked On Patriots. Don't forget, our studios are going to be back up and running and open tomorrow. And yeah, you guessed it. We open the week in style and we're going to close the week in style with our good friend Thomas Murphy. And we're going to be talking some external free agents.
Starting point is 00:18:42 So folks, if you've got a wish list out there, stay tuned for our episode on Friday. So stay locked in, folks, as we continue to bring you coverage of the New England Patriots offseason from every potential angle right here on the Locked On Patriots podcast, your team every day. And before we continue with the top three
Starting point is 00:19:00 of Mike's Magnificent Seven, there were some really close calls when it comes to honorable mentions on this list. And we'll start with Mack Wilson Sr., who I thought had a very good season, especially in the second half, really showed off his sideline-to-sideline speed, and I think he got better as the year went on. If the Patriots can work out a deal to keep him in Foxborough, I think it's a very good move for them and someone that can provide not only reserve depth but can even give you a spot start at times so I'm going to be keeping my sharp eye on Mack Wilson as well and the other player that nearly made my list is a tight end and yeah hi Claire I know you're going to like this one Farrell Brown who I think was a pleasant surprise not only
Starting point is 00:19:41 for me but for all of you out there I was well aware of his blocking prowess heading into this season, but the ability he showed me to break for the big play as a pass catcher, really impressive. I, for one, would love to see Farrell Brown stick around in New England for the long haul. And for those of you screaming at the screen of the device you're listening or watching this podcast on today, yes, I am well aware Trent Brown is not on my list. He's conspicuous by his absence. That's not because I think Trent is washed up, folks. Far from it. When he was healthy and engaged, he was solid at left tackle, and I think he still has some good football left in him. The question is, and this is why I left him off the list, folks, is can he mend fences in New England to make it work here there were clearly
Starting point is 00:20:25 some hurt feelings on both sides what kind of contract is either side willing to settle on does the fact that Gerard Mayo call the shots now instead of Bill Belichick hold any water with Trent these are going to be the details that have to be ironed out my opinion on the matter is that it's unlikely I think Trent goes elsewhere I think he's looking for a fresh start. Maybe the Patriots are as well, but again, this is one to watch in the coming weeks, so keep a sharp eye out. And with that being said, Mike's Magnificent Seven rolls on, and coming in at number three is tight end Hunter Henry. Yeah, that's right. Hello again, Claire. I know she's loving all the tight ends on this list, And look, I've never been shy in saying that I think Hunter Henry is an ideal fit in New England.
Starting point is 00:21:10 Despite missing the last three games of the season due to a knee injury, I thought Hunter made the most of his first turn as a team captain. He led all tight ends with 42 catches, 419 yards, and he led the team with six touchdowns. And for years here on Locked On Patriots, even when Hunter was a member of the LA Chargers, I praised him for his versatility, and he showcased that versatility this year. He is most productive when he's playing that traditional Y role at the tight end, accentuating his route running skills as well as his ability to box out. But he's also proven himself to be a strong blocker and a reliable pass catcher in
Starting point is 00:21:45 the open field. So because of that, Henry's services are not going to come cheap, but I do know that he has a strong affection for both the region and the organization, and that may allow the Patriots to negotiate a reasonable deal for him to return. And once again, folks, Hunter Henry's teammates love playing alongside him, not just because of his skills, but because of the leadership that he provides by example. Especially if you're looking to break in a new quarterback, you're going to need someone that's proficient in route running, blocking, and every type of offensive scheme that the Patriots may need to run. I think he's adaptable to whatever type of scheme they want to run.
Starting point is 00:22:22 Because of that, I think the Patriots should make Hunter Henry an offseason priority. Along with this man who comes in at number two, and folks, this should not be a surprise. Again, if you're an everydayer, you've heard me rave about the skills of Kyle Duggar. To me, Kyle Duggar is the type of player that can be imitated but not duplicated. And that even means from guys on his own team. Much like Hunter Henry, he's been widely praised for his versatility, especially right here on Locked On Patriots. When Duggar was a draft prospect, I not only scouted him as a potential good fit for the Patriots, I also predicted that the Patriots would indeed draft him. Now, I didn't think they'd do it in the second round at number 37 overall, but ultimately, I think he's lived up to that height. Don't forget, this kid came from
Starting point is 00:23:09 Division II Lenoir Ryan, and a lot of people, especially at the national level, believe the Patriots were reaching for his services. But Kyle led all defensive backs with 109 total tackles this season, while also breaking up seven passes getting two interceptions and one and a half sacks and Kyle brings an excellent blend of speed length and size to New England's backfield the kind that it's very difficult try to recreate by bringing in someone else and because you have someone with Kyle's size and savvy in that defensive backfield that allows you to run a number of different packages, both at the big nickel, which is the five defensive backs, and even running out the dime, which is six defensive backs. That versatility in defensive packages makes him a pretty valuable piece of that secondary.
Starting point is 00:23:54 At his best, he's able to cover a lot of ground, and I think he has the tools to match up not just with tight ends, but also backfield receivers in coverage. These are areas where New England's defense has been porous at times. Since Kyle Duggar's arrival, they've gotten better each ends, but also backfield receivers in coverage. And these are areas where New England's defense has been porous at times. Since Kyle Duggar's arrival, they've gotten better each and every year. That's not coincidence, folks. That's not by happenstance. That's by design. And it's because Kyle Duggar is so savvy at coverage. He's a good tackler, and he's proven himself capable of making stops in key situations. But I think the most important and impressive aspect of his game is solid and strong football acumen. This is someone who has great instincts and exhibited
Starting point is 00:24:31 a deep understanding of the playbook. Bill Belichick often said that Kyle absorbed a lot of the defensive plays that the Patriots ran and their concepts, some of the fastest span of time that anyone has ever done so under his tutelage. Again, I know Bill Belichick's no longer walking through that door, but Gerard Mayo is here, and his guiding hand on that defense definitely knows the value of such a strong player in that secondary. If Kyle Duggar is not a priority, I would be very surprised. I understand he's going to command a lot on the open market. I do understand that Jabril Peppers has emerged. Maybe even the fact that Marte Mapu, who I consider more of a linebacker than a safety, he's going to command a lot on the open market. I do understand that Jabril Peppers has emerged.
Starting point is 00:25:06 Maybe even the fact that Marte Mapu, who I consider more of a linebacker than a safety, may get some of those looks. But until they're able to find out for sure what they have in Marte and where he's going to fit in the long-term future, I think the Patriots would be smart to work something out with Kyle Duggar. And that leads me quite nicely
Starting point is 00:25:23 into the final person on this list today. and that is offensive tackle Michael Wainu. And again, folks, this should not come as a shock. The Patriots offensive line needs stability, and 6'3", 350-pound Michael Wainu is that stability. Because despite the numerous struggles along their offensive line, and folks, there were a lot of them, keeping the way new in the Foxborough fold is going to be essential in the Patriots moving forward at only 26 years old. He can be a cornerstone this year. He appeared in 15 games.
Starting point is 00:25:55 He aligned on 850 offensive snaps, 194 at guard, 656 at tackle and overall pro football focus graded him at a 71.5 while crediting him with allowing only 23 quarterback disruptions including three sacks. Ueno didn't have a perfect season folks there were times where he was beat and there were times where he looked mortal but for the most part when he's at his best he is a massive lineman with excellent length and demonstrates a consistent and impressive ability to overwhelm defenders when he blocks for the run. At the same time, his size allows him to anchor well to protect the passer. Such a rare combination, and in my opinion, that's going to make him highly sought after if he hits the open market.
Starting point is 00:26:40 So with him manning the right tackle position, the Patriots helped to solidify the right side because I think City So has proven himself as a solid addition at right guard. What the Patriots will do to solidify the left side might be a conversation better had at another time. But when it comes to Awenu, I think the Patriots need to do whatever they need to do to try to bring him back. I know there are a lot of reports out there that have indicated a pessimistic outlook on the Patriots' willingness to re-sign Mike or their ability to do so. In my opinion, just like it's difficult for a defender to bypass Michael Wainu when they're trying to make a pass block or get after the quarterback, the Patriots have to make it that much more difficult for Michael Wainu to bypass them this offseason. If they're serious
Starting point is 00:27:25 about rebuilding their offensive line in short order, I think he's essential to do so. I understand that the Patriots are going to be running a new type of offense this year, and that may change their priorities. But don't forget that Wainu is actually a true guard. That's the position he played at Michigan, and he played it well. His versatility and the athleticism that I don't think he gets enough credit for does make him a fit in any offensive line scheme, whether you're running more outside zone or whether you're continuing with the status quo. If the Patriots are going to switch it up on offense, folks, I promise you, I've watched Michael Wainer during practice, greater lateral movement than he's been called upon. He can showcase it. And that's why I think
Starting point is 00:28:04 he's so essential to bring back this year for the Patriots, no matter what kind of offensive scheme they run. So there you have it, folks. That's my Magnificent Seven, my top seven priorities for the Patriots internal free agency. Who did I forget on this list? Did I leave any of your favorites completely off it? Or do you agree with the players on the list? You just prioritize them differently. I'd love to hear your thoughts. So drop me a note in the comments section below on YouTube, or if you're listening on any one of the platforms on which you get your podcasts, definitely be sure to reach out to me on X at MDABATENFL.
Starting point is 00:28:39 And don't forget to tune in here tomorrow on Locked On Patriots, where we'll be back in the Locked On Patriots studios, talking to our good friend Thomas Murphy, and delving into the Patriots options for external free agents. In the meantime, folks, I want to thank each and every one of you, especially all of you everydayers out there that
Starting point is 00:28:57 continue to make Locked On Patriots a daily part of your New England Patriots coverage. Once again, I'm Mike DeBate, and I remind you all to stay safe and to stay well and to be the change you wish to see in the world. Have a great day, everyone, and we'll see you back here again tomorrow on Locked on Patriots.

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